Youth Programs
Inspiring and supporting youth is an essential part of how the Y works to build strong communities. We nurture the next generation through programs designed to help them create a brighter future for themselves and others. With opportunities to develop leadership skills, gain experience, and grow positive connections, we allow youth to share their voice and discover their full potential.
Become a Lifeguard | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 13+)
Getting certified is the first step towards working as an aquatic leader. After you have finished your courses, you will be a certified National Lifeguard and/or a Swim Instructor and eligible to apply to work at the YMCA (and many other organizations that recognize our Lifesaving Society credentials). Throughout the aquatic leadership courses, you will receive the knowledge you need to guard or teach effectively, and you will also have opportunities to increase your leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills.
Bronze Medallion (Ages 13+), Bronze Cross, Standard First Aid, National Lifeguard (Ages 15+), Swim Instructor (16+), Lifeguard (16+)
Y Wave Makers (Ages 8–17)
Y Wave Makers is our YMCA Swim Team! Structured to help swimmers develop competitive swimming skills in a safe, non-judgmental environment, Wave Makers engages swimmers in a fun environment, promoting team spirit, leadership skills, and positive reinforcement. Lessons will focus on warm-ups and stretching, team building, swim drills, workouts, and cool-downs. Swimmers will also have the opportunity to attend Swim Meets with other Y Wave Makers teams in the YMCA of Western Ontario. Swimmers must be able to complete one full length of the pool without stopping to be eligible for enrollment.
Junior Lifeguard Club (Ages 10–16)
Junior Lifesaver Club is a fun, fast paced opportunity for swimmers to stay active in the water while learning rescue skills from experienced lifeguard role models. As part of the program, participants will be involved in lifeguard course preparation, community education campaigns, and physical fitness. Prerequisite: Completed YMCA Star 4 level or Lifesaving Society Swimmer 6 level
Stroke Improvement – Swimming Lessons | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 13+)
Looking to improve efficiency, speed, and strength in the water? This class is for you! Improve your current stroke(s) for your own personal goals whether that is fitness, competition or just for fun!
Teen Lessons - Swimming Lessons | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 13-17)
Our teen swimming lessons provide a comfortable and engaging atmosphere for teenagers to learn water safety and develop strong swimming strokes at their own pace. Taught by specialized instructors, these lessons focus on building confidence and ensuring that every teen gains the skills necessary for a lifetime of water enjoyment.
Camp Queen Elizabeth Leadership Programs (Ages 15-16)
Leadership programs at CQE are designed to provide opportunities for progressive growth and development in an outdoor environment. At age 15, campers are able to start their leadership journey with our first month-long leadership program, Leadership 1: DEL (Developing Excellent Leaders). At age 16, they can progress to our Leadership 2: Island LIT (Leaders in Training) or Venture LIT (Leaders in Training). Our month-long leadership programs offer participants incredible opportunities to challenge themselves, grow and develop new skills, and create lifelong friendships within their leadership groups
Camp Henry Leadership Programs (Ages 14-16)
Ages 14-16: This program offers the same activities as our other programs, but with a focus on leadership development both within peer groups and the camp community as a whole. Participants have the opportunity to be part of programs and learn to lead and mentor younger campers.
Employment Programs & Services | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario
The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario is committed to building strong communities by fostering opportunities for newcomers, youth and individuals with disabilities. Through workshops, paid work placements, and training, our comprehensive employment services and programs are designed to ignite your potential and propel you towards your professional goals.
Y Works | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 15-30)
Y Works is an employment program that assists youth and young adults ages 15-30 to overcome barriers of employment. Our program delivers a range of activities that help youth overcome barriers to employment and develop a broad range of skills and knowledge in order to participate in the current and future labour market.
Work Here | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 16+)
Join our professional and passionate team and be the spark that ignites the potential in others.
Wellness floor (Ages 13+)
Explore our Wellness/Fitness floors fully equipped with a wide variety of modern cardio machines, strength training equipment, and free weights for every fitness level to help you achieve your personal health goals in a supportive environment. Visit your closest branch for hours of operation.
Open Gym (Ages 13+)
Drop in during our scheduled Open Gym times for flexible, and unstructured play in our gymnasiums. It’s the perfect opportunity to shoot some hoops, practice your skills, or enjoy a friendly pickup game with fellow members.
YThrive | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 10+)
YTHRIVE is a 6-month fitness program to help make exercise accessible, achievable, and enjoyable for those new to the YMCA
Group Fitness | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 13+)
Over 50 fitness classes across our association to choose from. Click for locations and descriptions.
Personal Training | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 13+)
Using the services of a certified personal trainer is one of the fastest, easiest, and most successful ways to improve your health and fitness as it helps keep you motivated, safe, and committed to exercising on a regular schedule.
Youth Advisory Council | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 15-24)
Applications open September annually
The Youth Advisory Council reviews, advises, and makes recommendations to programs, branches, senior staff, and board members about issues important to young people.
Junior & Senior Leaders | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario
Check your local branch for schedules
Our Junior Leaders program is designed for emerging leaders or individuals new to leadership roles. It focuses on the fundamentals of leadership through interactive workshops, case studies, and self-reflection, with the goal of building a strong foundation. (Grade 7-9)
Our Senior Leaders program is designed to be more advanced. Focused on individuals who are ready to develop more strategic leadership skills, this is accomplished through leadership challenges, and hands on learning. (Grade 9-11)
Babysitting Course (Ages 12-16)
Pick up some helpful hints on accident prevention, child behaviour, home safety and emergency procedures. The program is a recognized course of the Canada Safety Council. Students will receive a manual and certificate upon successful completion of the course and exam.
Project North (Grade 9-12)
Applications open January annually
The YMCA offers innovative leadership experience for students in Grades 9 to 12x from the Sarnia-Lambton area. The project creates a tremendous opportunity for participants to learn more about fundraising and embrace philanthropy. The young people developing their leadership potential will have a cumulative impact on their families, schools, friends, and the greater community.
Drop-In Sports (Ages 13+)
Our flexible drop-in schedule provides the perfect opportunity to play your favorite sports. Check your local branch for basketball, pickleball, volleyball, badminton and ping pong. You can also dive into our designated lane and recreational swim times, making it easy to stay active and connect with others whenever your schedule allows.
Leagues (Ages 13+)
Check out your local branch to join our organized sports leagues to enjoy a fun, structured season of friendly games with your peers. It's a fantastic opportunity to build skills, commit to a regular exercise schedule, and connect with your community through team camaraderie.
Newcomer Youth | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario
YMAP (Mapping the Way for Newcomer Youth) (Ages 12-24)
YMAP is a YMCA Integration & Leadership Program - Mapping the Way for Newcomer Youth. YMAP's main goal is to provide support and enrichment opportunities for newcomer youth to ease the adjustment to Canadian life. YMAP focuses on self-governance and opportunities for newcomer youth to establish social and professional networks.
SWIS
Settlement Workers in schools assist in the integration of newcomer families and students into the education system and community. Helps newcomer students and families understand the Canadian school system, build relationships, and reach their full potential. This program is a collaboration between the Lambton Kent District School Board and St. Clair Catholic District School Board.
Youth Education Support Program (YESP) (Grade 11, 12, and First Year post secondary)
A free program that helps youth succeed in school and prepare post-secondary through tutoring, mentoring, and career readiness support. It offers access to resources, workshops, and a strength-based, youth-centered approach.
Back On Track (Ages 12-17)
A 3-to-5-day referral program that provides students aged 12 to 17 who are having difficulties at school with the opportunity to take a step back. It offers a positive and restorative experience that fosters personal growth, autonomy, and the development of social skills in lieu of disciplinary measures. This program is in collaboration with the St. Clair Catholic District School board in Chatham, Ontario.
Celebration Of Youth Awards (Ages 17-20)
The Celebration of Youth Awards honours local youth, 17-20 years of age, whose outstanding talents and achievements have made a difference in our community. The awards focus on youth who have demonstrated leadership, sensitivity to others, innovation, development of personal talents, overcoming personal challenges, and service to the community. Special consideration is given to youth faced with financial barriers.
YGAP (Youth Gambling Awareness Program) (Ages 8-24)
A free service for educators and youth offering educational prevention workshops to help youth make healthy and informed decisions.
Volunteer | YMCA of Southwestern Ontario (Ages 13+)
The YMCA of Southwestern Ontario offers a wide range of programs and services at more than 150 locations, with Volunteer opportunities to match your skills, interests, and schedule.